Domperidone

A potent dopamine antagonist with antiemetic properties. It is useful in the treatmnt of nausea, vomiting and dyspepsia. It increases lower oesophageal sphincter pressure, antral and duodenal contractions, gastric emptying of liquids and semi-solids, and shortens the stationary phase for solids in the stomach.

Indications

Symptomatic relief of acute nausea & vomiting.Gastric motility disorders such as reflux oesophagitis & duodenogastric dyspeptic symptoms.

Dosage

Adults: 20-40 mg 3-4 times daily. In elderly commence at 10 mg. Children: (following chmotherapy or irradiation only) 0.3 mg/kg body wt. 3-4 times daily before meals & at bed time.

Contra-Indications

Pregnancy.

Special Precautions

Concomitant administration of anti-cholinergic drugs may compromise beneficial effects of dopamine. Paediatrics: Reduced dose necessary. Pregnancy: Safety not established. Lactation: Present in breast milk. Elderly: No special problems.

Side Effects

Serum prolactin level may rise resulting in galactorrhoea in females & les frequently gynaecomastia in males.

Drug Interactions

Reduces asorption of oral digoxin. Increases absorption of aspirin,paracetamol & oral diazepam.Effects antagonised by anticholinergic agents.EnhancesCNSdepression by phenothiazine.